Where to go next?

[rtalk]

Hi,

I started out as a general Rolex fan, and slowly purchased six digit Rolexes over the last few years. Recently I purchased a five digit GMT master II. Not only do I love my 16710, but I loved reading all the scholarship on the five digits and how they evolved over time. So with that said, I think that buying older references is really fun and I want to repeat the experience.

So where should I go next?

I’m thinking five digits from late 90s to early 2000s is the place to be for me. When I tried to find a GMT, I noticed that it’s really hard to find a 1675 or 16750 that didn’t have service parts, had box and papers, and had a price in my budget. So I kind of feel late five digits could offer me all of that in a reasonable price range for my budget.

But I’m really open to anything. Bubblebacks, star dials, etc. so as long as I can learn about watches, spend around max 10-15K per watch and still get something that is mostly original and in good condition. Investment is not my consideration either.


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[330ci]

Day Dates, Unique DJs, more common models with complete sets. possibilities are endless really.

[rtalk]

Originally Posted by 330ci

Day Dates, Unique DJs, more common models with complete sets. possibilities are endless really.

Anything you recommend? Any hidden corners that are not well looked at?


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[Tom1675]

Originally Posted by rtalk

Hi,

I started out as a general Rolex fan, and slowly purchased six digit Rolexes over the last few years. Recently I purchased a five digit GMT master II. Not only do I love my 16710, but I loved reading all the scholarship on the five digits and how they evolved over time. So with that said, I think that buying older references is really fun and I want to repeat the experience.

So where should I go next?

I’m thinking five digits from late 90s to early 2000s is the place to be for me. When I tried to find a GMT, I noticed that it’s really hard to find a 1675 or 16750 that didn’t have service parts, had box and papers, and had a price in my budget. So I kind of feel late five digits could offer me all of that in a reasonable price range for my budget.

But I’m really open to anything. Bubblebacks, star dials, etc. so as long as I can learn about watches, spend around max 10-15K per watch and still get something that is mostly original and in good condition. Investment is not my consideration either.


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start looking at 4 digit models. Look into a great condition 5513 or maybe at the top end of your range a 1675. As you stated, itll take a bit of some looking but original examples are out there. Enjoy the hunt!

[indianmachine]

there's nothing quite like a 1675 or 5513 with a perfectly faded bezel, well-aged lume (ranges from vanilla ice cream to pumpkin or even mustard yellow) and nice case. Will take some work but I think there are examples out there within the top end of your budget (perhaps without box and papers).

Edit: realizing I basically just said the same thing as Tom. We'll I'll leave it!

[subx]

14060 submariner is a great link from old to new, my favorite mix: 5 digit , pretty lugs, 2line dial,non SEL end links, yet sapphire, gloss dial with white gold surrounds, 580 bracelet, turn of the millenium etc

[zapokee]

You're severely limiting your options if you insist on box and papers. They just sit in a cupboard, and you effectively pay through the nose for them.

I'd forget that requirement if I were you, as long as the watch is priced accordingly. It's not like you can't sell on a vintage Rolex if you decide to, with or without B&P.

[subx]

Originally Posted by zapokee

You're severely limiting your options if you insist on box and papers. They just sit in a cupboard, and you effectively pay through the nose for them.

I'd forget that requirement if I were you, as long as the watch is priced accordingly. It's not like you can't sell on a vintage Rolex if you decide to, with or without B&P.

sure everyone has their own comfort level, to me box and papers is everything, to that effect I never bought a watch other than from either 1) AD 2) original owner.

but I do agree with you : no one wears them ;)

[ILuvSubs]

Originally Posted by zapokee

You're severely limiting your options if you insist on box and papers. They just sit in a cupboard, and you effectively pay through the nose for them.

I'd forget that requirement if I were you, as long as the watch is priced accordingly. It's not like you can't sell on a vintage Rolex if you decide to, with or without B&P.

I agree. I place more importance on the condition of the watch and ensuring I only buy from the reputable vintage trusted sellers on TRF. You will know who they are from checking out the Who’s Who subforum.

Also, there’s no substitute to doing your own research. Even after all these years, I’m always learning new things from reading blogs, articles and forum posts from the knowledgeable members here.